Guides / California

How to get a real estate license in Los Angeles, CA

There is no separate Los Angeles real estate license. Agents in Los Angeles hold a California salesperson license from the California Department of Real Estate (DRE), the same as everywhere else in the state. Here is what that means locally, with the full steps in the California guide.

The California steps at a glance

  1. Meet the basics
  2. Finish three college-level courses
  3. Pass the state exam
  4. Apply for the license
  5. Work under a responsible broker

Full California guide · Renewal and CE rules

Los Angeles by the numbers

Active licensees
15,940
Brokers
3,740
Salespersons
12,200
Brokerages they work with
1,849
First licensed in the last 12 months
630

Source: California Department of Real Estate public license file (public record), as of October 23, 2026. Counted by the mailing address on file with the state. Active means Licensed or Licensed NBA (licensed, not currently working under a broker).

Picking a brokerage in Los Angeles

The California guide explains when you need to work under a broker. Many new agents talk to a few local offices before they decide. These franchise offices list an address in Los Angeles.

Offices in Los Angeles

4 real estate franchise offices list an address in Los Angeles: 4 Coldwell Banker.

Source: All The Places (CC-0), from each brand's public office locator, as of October 18, 2026. Not affiliated and not a recommendation; confirm details with the office.

Agents and offices in Los Angeles

Questions

Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in Los Angeles?

Not for the real estate license itself: the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) issues it and it covers all of California. The city may have its own business license rules, so check with the city.

Where do I take the course if I live in Los Angeles?

Any school approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) works, in a classroom or online where the state allows it. Check the approval before you pay.

Nearby city guides: Arcadia · Downey · Long Beach · Santa Monica · Lancaster · Cerritos · Glendora · Pasadena

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.

Licensed already?

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